As Brothers Fight Ye!

Not to be a centre of pestilence, but I just had to point out that Crowley had it right when he said, "As brothers fight ye!" OK, lots of folks have known that for ages. But now a reputable institution has published scientific evidence that it doesn't hurt to duke it out occasionally.

Dr Claire Hughes, of the Centre for Family Research at Cambridge, conducted a longitudinal study of preschoolers from high-risk backgrounds. Among the conclusions drawn from evidence, sibling rivalry can actually help preschool children to develop social skills and a rich vocabulary for discussing emotional content.

The study also shows similar benefits when mothers talk with their kids in ways that contrast, compare, and elaborate on the child's feelings and interests.

Will this change the way you parent your preschooler?

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